How to Hang a Canoe On the Wall

Are you struggling to figure out how to hang a canoe on the wall? Is it hard to find a suitable hanging spot on the wall for your canoe? Finding the right spot and choosing the ideal canoe hanging approach is crucial to ensure that your boat is firmly hanging on the while and adds value to your space just perfectly. 

To help you with that, this blog will uncover all the ins and outs of hanging a canoe on the wall. But before we dive into the details, remember that no matter which method you go for, safety comes first! 

So make sure everything is properly installed and your canoe is well-supported to have your trusty canoe on display, giving your space that adventurous vibe! 

How to Hang a Canoe on the Wall – Different Ways

If you want to hang your canoe on the wall, you’ve got a few cool options to choose from. Let’s break them down into different categories: 

Wall Brackets: 

These are both simple and efficient to use. To use this method you need:

• First purchase two brackets and screw them into the wall studs to complete the installation. Then, check that they are even and that the distance between them is appropriate for your canoe. 
• Now, put some cushioning on the brackets so they won’t scratch the hull of your canoe. 
• After this, carefully hoist the canoe with the assistance of a friend, and place it on those padded brackets. That’s it, you’ve got a really good grasp on things with your boat.

Wall Cradles: 

These are quite similar to brackets, but they provide additional support where necessary. To hang your canoe on a wall using wall cradles, you need to:

• First, install two padded cradles on wall studs so that the hull of your canoe can be supported by the cradles. 
• Now lift the canoe carefully. 
• Once the canoe is lifted, get some assistance or collaboration to hang it into the cradles. 

Building a Wall Rack: 

Unlike the previous methods, this method requires a little bit more do-it-yourself work, but it’s well worth it. For this, you need to:

• Construct a canoe frame out of wood with arms that are shaped to fit the canoe’s hull. While you do it, be sure to fasten it firmly to the studs in the wall. 
• Now, raise your canoe once more with the assistance of a friend.
• Afterward, place it on the rack. That bespoke rack will make your canoe appear like a piece of art when it’s displayed!

Using a Canoe Hoist: 

If you want to store your canoe in the air, it’s always possible. All you need is a canoe hoist. After that:

• Make sure the hoist is installed on the ceiling in such a way that it is very secure. 
• Next, use the strap that comes along with the canoe and wrap it around your canoe in order to be able to hoist it up and hang it from the ceiling.  

Suspended Hooks: 

Are you short on money? No worries, as this canoe-hanging method will help fulfil your canoe-hanging desires on the wall without being heavy on your pocket. To try this method, just:

• Get yourself a couple of heavy-duty hooks
• Then screw them into the wall studs
• After this, you need to space the hooks out to accommodate the width of your canoe. 
• The next step is to suspend your boat from the hooks by utilizing some ropes or straps. Voila! Your canoe is going to have an expertly hung position.

If you’re using a proper canoe storing method in the form of hanging then your canoe transportation or strapping canoe to car roof rack will also become easier. Because, everytime, you just have to pick the canoe and tie down on your car, or trailer. Otherwise, it get’s difficult, if your canoeing equipment is lying disorganized.

Pros and Cons of All the Hanging Methods

Method	Pros	Cons
Wall Hooks	Simple, affordable	Not as secure as other methods
Wall Rack	More secure than wall hooks	More expensive
Canoe Hoist	Very secure, versatile	More expensive
Ceiling Hoist	Very secure, versatile	Requires high ceilings
Canoe Sling	Easy to move canoe around	Not as secure as other methods
Canoe Rack	Secure, versatile	More expensive

Important Things to Consider Before Hanging the Canoes on the Wall

Other than learning how to hang canoe on wall, it is also important to understand the different aspects that should be considered for installing a secure, safe, and error-free canoe hanging solution on the wall. 

Considering that, below are some important aspects to consider before you begin hanging your canoe on the wall. Make sure to consider the following tips to ensure error-free, secure, and durable canoe installation on the wall. 

1. Check the Strength of the Wall:

First things first, make sure the wall that you intend to utilize for hanging is strong enough. Because canoes can be rather heavy, you will need to check if the wall is strong enough to support their weight. 

Keep an eye out for wall studs, which are the vertical beams that can be found beneath the wall; they offer the best support. It’s possible that you’ll need to utilize wall anchors in order to spread the weight along the wall more equally if it’s made of drywall or plaster.

2. The Material of the Wall:

Give the material that your wall is made of careful consideration. When attaching things to different sorts of walls, you’ll need different kinds of hardware. 

Anchors are required for drywall, but concrete or brick walls may require specialized masonry anchors. Make sure you have all of the necessary equipment and hardware for the type of wall you are working on.

3. Space Availability and Clearance:

Measure the amount of wall space that is available on the wall where you wish to hang the canoes. You need to ensure that you have sufficient space to fit the length and width of the canoes without causing them to protrude an excessive amount. 

While you’re at it, take into account the space that is available around the canoes to eliminate the risk of unintentional collisions or obstructions.

4. Ensuring an Appropriate Weight Distribution:

To maximize stability, distribute the canoes’ weight evenly over the wall mounts. 

In contrast, if you want to avoid tilting or unbalancing the canoe, install multiple mounts at the same height and level.

5. Mounting Hardware:

 It is important to make sure that the canoes have the appropriate mounting hardware. Wall brackets or cradles are common choices for this purpose. Choose hardware that is heavy-duty, of excellent quality, and is proportionate to the weight and dimensions of the canoes you own.

6. Checking the Stability of Wall Mounts:

The canoes’ weight should be dispersed across the wall mounts for maximum stability. 

However, if you want to keep the canoe from leaning to one side or becoming unbalanced, you should set up several mounts at the same height and level.

7. Accessibility: 

Make sure to consider how you’ll get to the canoes that are mounted on the wall and how you’ll get them down. Now, if you intend to use them frequently, consider a hanging technique that allows for easy removal and repositioning of the item in question. 

Considering these points, it is critical to make your outdoor gear as accessible as possible in order to get the most out of it.

8. Aesthetics: 

Another thing that should be taken into consideration is the significance of aesthetics. Your canoes hung from the ceiling have the potential to be a stunning focal point in the space. 

So determine where you want the focal point of the room to be and then decorate it in a way that not only complements the style of the rest of your house but also adds a dash of audacity and style to the ambiance.

9. Safety Precautions:

Lastly, don’t forget to prioritize others’ well-being. In other words, make sure the canoes won’t slide down the wall from where you hang them. To further avoid accidents, place watercraft away from the reach of children and pets.

What Equipment is Needed for Hanging the Canoes on the Wall

Using the right wall equipment when it comes to learning how to hang canoe on wall is crucial. Now if you’re unsure what equipment you need, below is a list of essential tools that will help make the canoe installation on the wall more secure, and efficient. 

• Wall Mounts or Brackets: Choose sturdy and reliable wall mounts or brackets, canoe hoists, suspended hooks, and wall cradles specifically designed for hanging canoes. These will be the main support for your canoes, so make sure they are strong enough to handle the weight.
• Wall Anchors (if required): If you’re hanging the canoes on drywall or other fragile wall materials, you’ll need wall anchors to provide extra support and distribute the weight evenly.
• Screws and Bolts: Ensure you have the right size and type of screws and bolts to attach the wall mounts securely to the wall. The length and thickness of the screws should match the thickness of your wall and the wall mounts.
• Level and Measuring Tape: A level will help you ensure that your canoes are hung straight and level on the wall. A measuring tape is essential for precise placement and spacing.
• Stud Finder: A stud finder will help you locate wall studs, which are the most secure points for mounting heavy objects like canoes.

• Drill and Drill Bits: You’ll need a drill to make holes for the screws and anchors. Drill bits are necessary to match the size of the screws and anchors. You should also arrange a screwdriver and wrench to fit the screws.
• Pencil or Marker: Use a pencil or marker to mark the spots where you’ll be drilling holes and mounting the wall brackets.
• Safety Gear: It’s always a good idea to wear safety gear, such as safety glasses and gloves, when drilling or handling hardware.
• Ladder or Step Stool: Depending on the height of the wall, you may need a ladder or step stool to reach the mounting points comfortably and safely.
• Canoes: Last but not least, don’t forget the canoes themselves! Make sure they are clean and in good condition before hanging them on the wall.

Additional Tips for Stability and Aesthetics

Once you know how to hang a canoe on the wall, what’s next? Is that all to what needs to be done to store your canoe in a safe and secure spot? Probably not!

This is the time to ensure extra stability and add to the aesthetics of your canoe storage spot on the wall. You can do this by practicing the following tips: 

• One of the most important things to consider for added stability and aesthetics of a wall-hung canoe is to place padding or foam strips on the wall brackets or cradles to prevent scratches and damage to the canoe during storage.

• It’s also important to enhance the overall look of your space by incorporating decorative elements around the area where the canoe is hung. This could include artwork, plants, or other decorative pieces that complement the canoe.
• Make sure to periodically inspect and tighten the mounting screws to maintain a secure attachment of the canoe to the wall.
• If you have multiple canoes to hang, arrange them in a visually appealing manner. Consider creating a symmetrical display or organizing them by size or color for an attractive arrangement.
• It’s crucial to adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations when installing the wall brackets or cradles. This ensures proper usage of the hardware and correct mounting of the canoe.
• When considering how to hang the canoe on the wall, make sure to hang the canoe parallel to the wall to distribute its weight evenly and improve stability.
• Another essential thing to consider for added stability and aesthetics of hanging a canoe on the wall is to choose a height for hanging the canoe that allows easy access and retrieval when needed.
• Lastly, make sure to select a wall location away from direct sunlight and areas prone to moisture or humidity to protect the canoe from potential damage.

Hanging Canoe on Walls – Indoor Vs Outdoor

Since it is best to store a canoe in a dry and climate-controlled area, storing them indoors is always better than opting for outdoor storage options. This can include indoor storage options like the house or garage. 

Another consideration is that storing your canoe indoors during the offseason will assist to protect it from UV rays, excessive heat and cold, moisture, and theft.

Regardless, if you intend to store your canoe outside, it should be lying on its gunwales, not on canoe keel line and upside down on a rack. 

Furthermore, the canoe should be protected from bright sunshine and excessive dampness by being covered. Finally, secure the canoe to prevent theft.

To protect your canoe from the elements, you should paint fiberglass canoe or any canoe which you’ve. Canoe Painting isn’t difficult at all, and you can paint your boat at home.

Pros and Cons of Storing a Canoe Indoors: 

Pros:

• Provides full UV and precipitation protection for your boat.
• Offers the best security option to keep your boat safe.
• Climate-controlled environment prevents damage from extreme temperatures.

Cons:

• Likely the most expensive storage option available.
• May not accommodate larger boats due to space limitations in dry stacked storage.

Pros and Cons of Storing a Canoe Outdoors: 

Pros:

• More cost-effective storage solution.
• Avoid potential Homeowners Association (HOA) fees associated with boat storage.

Cons:

• Need to winterize your boat before storing it.
• The storage facility is not climate-controlled, which may expose your boat to varying temperatures.

Hanging your canoe will become more complicated if outboard canoe trolling motor is installed. Because, you’ve to ensure that while doing so, it doesn’t damage the motor or it’s mount.

How Do I Choose the Right Spot on the Wall for Hanging?

Choosing the right spot on the wall for hanging your canoe is essential to ensure both safety and aesthetics. Here’s a detailed description of how to choose the perfect spot:

Consider the Wall Strength: 

Before anything else, assess the strength of the wall. Canoes can be heavy, so you’ll need to find a wall that can support the weight. Concrete or brick walls are generally stronger and better suited for hanging heavy items. If you have drywall or plaster walls, you’ll need to locate wall studs for added support.

Measure the Canoe Dimensions: 

Measure the length, width, and depth of your canoe. This will help you determine the amount of wall space required to accommodate the canoe without it protruding too far from the wall.

Determine the Hanging Height: 

Decide on the height at which you want to hang the canoe. Consider the vertical space available in the room and ensure the canoe won’t interfere with any furniture or doorways. Ideally, the canoe should be at a height where it is easily visible and won’t be a hindrance.

Find Wall Studs: 

Using a stud finder, locate the wall studs in the chosen area. Wall studs provide the most secure anchor points for hanging heavy items like canoes. Mark the positions of the studs with a pencil.

Use Level and Measuring Tape: 

Once you’ve chosen the spot and marked the wall studs, use a level and measuring tape to ensure that the canoe will be hung straight and level. Measure and mark the desired hanging height on the wall.

Clearance and Spacing: 

Consider the clearance around the canoe. Make sure there’s enough space around it so it doesn’t touch any adjacent walls or furniture. Also, ensure that there’s enough space above the canoe so it doesn’t bump into the ceiling.

Safety Precautions: 

Double-check that the chosen spot doesn’t obstruct any electrical outlets or switches. Ensure that the canoe won’t block any pathways or pose a safety hazard.

Assess Aesthetics: 

Consider the overall aesthetics of the room. Choose a spot where the canoe will be a visually appealing focal point. It should complement the surrounding decor and add to the room’s ambiance.

Test Placement: 

Before drilling any holes, do a test placement by holding the canoe against the wall at the desired height and position. This will give you a visual idea of how it will look in space.

Mark the Mounting Points: 

Once you’re satisfied with the placement, mark the mounting points on the wall using a pencil. If using wall anchors, mark their positions as well.

How Do I Protect the Canoe Surface While Hanging from Scratches or Damage?

To protect the canoe from such damages, ensure that it is supported at multiple spots all the way along its length. To do this, you can utilize padding, cradles, and wide straps (if it’s hanging), all of which should conform to the curve of the hull.

FAQs – how to hang canoe on wall

How do I deal with uneven or weak walls?

To deal with uneven or weak walls when hanging a canoe, reinforce the wall area and use wall studs or anchors for added support and stability. Consider using a spreader bar and distribute the weight across multiple mounts for better load distribution.

Why determining the proper height and spacing for hanging a canoe is necessary?

Canoes should be hung at the appropriate height and distance apart to prevent discoloration, deformation, holes chewed by mice or other animals, mold growth, and twisted paddles.

Are there any weight restrictions for hanging a canoe on the wall?

Yes, canoes on walls have weight limits. Precisely, because exceeding the weight limit can harm the walls and endanger safety.  Having said that, the canoe’s weight limit depends on its wall mounts or brackets. 

So to ensure that the wall mounts can support the canoe accessories, make sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions. 

Can I hang a canoe on an angled or sloped wall?

Yes, you can hang a canoe on an angled or sloped wall. 

Can I hang a canoe vertically instead of horizontally?

Yes, it is possible to hang a canoe vertically on the wall. However, it is important to make sure to hang a canoe from its strongest points. 

Can I hang a canoe with outriggers, motor mount or stabilizers on the wall?

Yes! Since a stabilizer increases stability and lowers “tippiness” to a canoe, you can use outriggers, motor mounts, or canoe stabilizers to wall-mount the canoe.